If you don’t want to clutter your kitchen with closed corner cabinets you can opt for open shelves instead. These too can allow you to make good use of a corner space. Install several shelves to create a sort of open pantry. It can be framed by regular cabinets on either side or it can occupy an empty part of the kitchen. Either way, it’s better than a dead corner.

So birch is outdated for you but honeyed wood tones aren’t quite right either. Time for a different approach. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box when choosing your hardwood flooring. If you enjoy making a statement in your home, a two toned floor in your kitchen will certainly flow much better than any birch ever could.